Students from a local school that has committed to offering girls increased opportunities to play football have been surprised with tickets to the upcoming Barclays Women's Super League Merseyside derby, courtesy of Club partner Football Manager. 

Holy Family High School’s joint Year 9 and 10 football team will be at Goodison Park for what will be the very first BWSL derby played at the stadium on Friday 24 March (kick-off 7.30pm).

Female students at the Thornton-based comprehensive are encouraged to give football a go throughout their journey at the school, with teams competing at varying age groups. 

Holy Family competes against other schools in the South Sefton league and came second in the Year 9/10 Sefton girls football tournament in December, losing the final late on.

The school also has links to the Club’s charity, Everton in the Community, with EitC coaches having delivered coaching sessions at the school with the help of players from the Everton Women team. 
 
Football Manager and Everton Women’s partnership first launched in 2021 and was renewed in October 2022.

As an official partner of Everton Women, the renowned gaming brand is committed to contributing to the development of the women’s game at all levels, and the game’s developers, Sports Interactive, are working on including women’s football in a future edition of the popular title. 

Katie Swan, a teacher at Holy Family High School, explained what the donation means to the children: “They’re all delighted to be able to go and see the game live and it will be great for them to experience what should be a fantastic occasion first-hand.

“We share Football Manager’s passion for the development of the women’s game, so to see our Year 9 and 10 team so committed to playing and training regularly is really pleasing.

“On behalf of the school and the children’s parents, I’d like to thank Football Manager for their generosity – it means a lot to us.”

Richard Trafford, Head of Business Development and Partnerships at Football Manager added: “We’re proud to be partnered with a football club that does so much for its community and after hearing about the girls at Holy Family, this was the least we could do.

“Knowing that they are so excited to be heading to Goodison Park is a great feeling and we hope that the fixture will inspire grassroots footballers to continue their journey, whatever level they’re at.

“Best of luck to Brian and the team on the night!”

Tickets for the Merseyside derby are on general sale now and the match is a great opportunity to experience Goodison Park under the lights.

Tickets are priced at £8 for adults, £4 for under-18s and £4 for over-65s. For full details, please click here.